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Learning French

by Prudhwija Ravi
written by Prudhwija Ravi
photo by Soroush Karimi

You’ve just moved to Luxembourg where there are 3 official languages and the average person in the street is probably in fact quadrilingual. Mon Dieu! Oh Gott! Mei, O Mei! Which language should you learn? Where to start? Don’t worry. City Savvy is here to guide you.

One thing for sure, the best way to get connected with a new place is to learn the language, or in the case of Luxembourg, learn one of the languages. Which language you learn first will depend on things like; where you live, what job you do, whether you have children in the local school and how long you plan on living here. This article is all about where you can learn French. If you want to learn German or Luxembourgish then see the City Savvy Guide to Learning German and the City Savvy Guide to Learning Luxembourgish.

Background

Upon the founding of the country, French enjoyed the greatest prestige, and therefore gained preferential use as the official and administrative language. German was used in the political field to comment on the laws so that they could be understood by everyone. In 1984 Luxembourgish was made the national language by law and this law also recognised the three languages of Luxembourg (Luxembourgish, French and German) as administrative languages. French remains the language of legislation however.

Get Started

You will probably have already noticed the extensive use of French all over the Grand Duchy, especially in the capital. Whether it’s a street name, an advertisement or a person greeting you, plenty of the communication happens in French. And by now, its likely you’ve learnt to say bonjour, merci, sil vous plait and au revoir, right? Bravo! Don’t snub your enthusiasm. Learn the romantic language and magnify your access to the French – art, architecture, cuisine, fashion, films, literature and more.

Voila! Here is a comprehensive list of institutes that offer French language learning courses. The government recognised institutions and non-profit community associations offer French language classes for a less expensive fee. For more personalised options, you can register with one of the private language training centers. Follow our fundamental tips and you should manage fairly well.

Government Recognised Organisations

The government recognised organisations are affiliated to the Luxembourg Ministry of Education. They offer day and evening classes for a fee of around 200 euros per term. These courses are convenient for working professionals. Contact them by phone or email for information about the schedule and fee.

Non-profit Associations

Some non-profit associations like the language societies, student groups and local communes offer French language learning sessions for a nominal fee.  Most of the classes are offered for between 50 and 90 euros. This is a great option for students. For detailed information about the schedule and fees, contact them by phone or email.

  • Mouvement pour l’Egalité des Chances, 30, route de Wasserbillig, L-6490Echternach (Map)
    Tel: +352 26 72 00 35, Email: aurelia.pattou @mecasbl.lu                                                         
  • Maison d’Afrique, 3, Rue du Curé, L-1368 Luxembourg (Map)
    Tel: +352 27 12 54 53, Email: maisondafriqueasbl @gmail.com 
  • Entente sans frontiers, 14, rue Pierre Dupong, L-7314 Heisdorf (Map)
    Tel: +352 621 28 87 49, Email: entente.sans.frontieres @gmail.com

Private Institutions

Most of the private institutions offer comprehensive language learning solutions. They have distinct packages designed for adults, children and companies. Some of them also offer private home tuition. Visit their websites for more information.

  • Inlingua, 5, rue de Hesperange, L-1731 Luxembourg (Map)
    Tel. +352 40 35 47, Email: infoinlingua@inlingua.lu
    (or) 46, rue de l’Alzette, L-4010 Esch-Sur-Alzette (Map)
    Tel. +352 26 53 24 66, Email: info@inlingua-esch.lu

City Savvy’s Extra Tips for learning French

  • Learn French with TV5 Monde.
  • Watch French movies with English and French subtitles.
  • Keep an eye on the French subtitles while watching English or other language films.
  • Install a Translator app on your mobile to find a rapid French alternative. This will save you right when you need help.
  • Stay tuned to French television channels, fm or music.
  • Read L’essential (French news tabloid available at bus stops, cafes and other public places) even if you don’t understand it very well it will help you understand the context and you’ll slowly improve your vocabulary.
  • Practice, practice, practice. There is plenty of opportunity to speak French in Luxembourg and generally your efforts will be hugely appreciated. Bon chance!

			
			

						

			
												

											

									

	


	
		

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		Prudhwija Ravi	

	

		

		
Studied English Literature and Communication, worked in the arenas of web content, advertising and public relations. Moved to Luxembourg with her husband in September 2013. Relishing the relaxed lifestyle and spending time exploring the city and writing. Interested in photography, films, food and travel. She also shares her experiences and observations on her blog.

																					


	
	
		
		
	
	
	
		
		
	
	
	
					

		
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